“laa’, abadan”

“al-Hamdu li-llaah” “Praise be to God”

How to do it: after shaking hands, place right hand across the chest and bow head briefly. This is a sign of respect to someone of high office or an older person, such as your partner’s parents.Illustration: Guardian

“uSbur” “Be patient”/“slow down”

How to do it: hold right arm out at about waist height, and with palm uppermost, bunch all the fingertips together and move hand up and down repeatedly. Used in busy traffic by drivers and pedestrians alike.Illustration: Guardian